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Science News Archive September 2024 - Page 2


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Oughton collecting data on space weather events

Edward Oughton is gathering perishable operational decision data from critical infrastructure operators to model space weather hazards. The project aims to improve future scientists' and engineers' understanding of space weather hazards, supported by $84,999 in National Science Foundation funding.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateSep 30, 2024

Sociologists estimate impact of Alaska’s universal cash payments on birth outcomes

A recent study found that Alaska's universal cash transfer program had a minimal impact on birthweight but significant benefits for birthing people and families, including reduced financial stress. The research suggests that timing of cash resources can play a crucial role in supporting maternal and newborn health.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateSep 30, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Expert panel calls for nutrition competencies in US medical education

A panel of experts recommends 36 nutrition competencies for US medical students and physician trainees to improve patient health outcomes and address diet-related diseases. The proposed competencies cover six categories, including foundational knowledge, assessment and diagnosis, and collaborative support.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 30, 2024

When detecting depression, the eyes have it

Researchers developed two new AI-powered smartphone apps to spot depression warnings in pupils' dilation, unconscious facial expressions, and head movements. The systems showed 76% accuracy in detecting depressed states, outperforming existing smartphone-based detection platforms.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateSep 30, 2024

Tracking microplastics: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering researcher helps discover how microplastics move for better storm water management

A study by FAMU-FSU College of Engineering researcher Nasrin Alamdari found that the shape, size, and density of microplastics affect their sinking speed, impacting urban stormwater transport. The research suggests solutions like permeable pavements and green spaces can trap microplastics, reducing pollution.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Wnt happens in kidney development?

Researchers found that low Wnt signaling levels regulate NPC self-renewal, while higher levels initiate differentiation into mature kidney cell types. The studies also reveal the role of beta-catenin in aggregating NPCs to form early kidney structures.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalDevelopment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New synthesis strategy could speed up PFAS decontamination

Rice engineers developed a new synthesis strategy for covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that can be used to trap gases, filter water and speed up chemical reactions. The approach enables faster production of COFs with superior crystallinity and high efficiency in breaking down harmful chemicals.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Single housing extends adult lifespan in African turquoise killifish

Researchers found that single-housed adult fish exhibited a longer egg-laying period and slower aging process compared to group-housed counterparts. The study suggests that early-life social environment may influence life-long attributes beyond the typical relationship between growth rate and lifespan.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2024

Fluorescent molecules to illuminate life: simplified synthesis with formaldehyde

A research team has developed a simplified synthesis method for organic fluorophores using formaldehyde, reducing molecular size and increasing atomic efficiency. The new technique can also be applied to in vivo environments, showing promise for life sciences research and diagnostics applications.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 30, 2024

Combining AI and thermal video offers a new window into weightlifting

Researchers developed a method combining AI and thermal cameras to enhance weightlifting training, providing data-driven insights for targeted strategies. The approach enables real-time tracking of muscle activation, strain detection, and temperature changes, ultimately helping athletes optimize performance and safety.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateSep 30, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Frequent fizzy or fruit drinks and high coffee consumption linked to higher stroke risk

Research from a global study co-led by University of Galway found that frequent drinking of fizzy drinks or fruit juice increases the risk of stroke. Drinking more than four cups of coffee per day also raises this risk. The study advises avoiding or minimizing fizzy and fruit drinks, and switching to water instead.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalJournal of Stroke·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2024

Support for meat rationing to protect climate

A new study from Uppsala University found that nearly 40% of the public support rationing of goods like meat and fuel to reduce their climate impact. The study, which surveyed over 9,000 people in five countries, also showed that acceptability of rationing is on par with taxes for emissions-intensive food.

SourceUppsala University·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·TypeSurvey·DateSep 30, 2024

Thaumatin: natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory potential

A new study reveals thaumatin, a widely used natural sweetener, produces bitter peptides that stimulate acid secretion and influence inflammatory reactions in human stomach cells. The peptides also show anti-inflammatory effects by reducing pro-inflammatory interleukin 17A release via the TAS2R16 bitter taste receptor.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Undecided voters are less likely to cast their ballot, study shows

A new study by the University of Exeter finds that undecided voters are 10 points less likely to vote than those with a clear preference. The study suggests that voter turnout improves when people have a partisan identity and pay greater attention to politics.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalElectoral Studies·DateSep 30, 2024

Study: Conflicting goals, focus on economic development lead to underperforming streetcar systems

Cities with high-performing streetcar systems prioritize transporting people to desired locations, while those that focus on economic development often experience poor performance. The study highlights the importance of focusing on passenger attraction and coordinated fare policies for successful streetcar systems.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

New laser-based headset can measure blood flow, assess risk of stroke

A team of engineers and scientists from Caltech has developed a headset-based device that can noninvasively assess a patient's stroke risk by monitoring changes in blood flow and volume. The device uses speckle contrast optical spectroscopy to differentiate between individuals at low and high risk of stroke.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Could a bout of COVID protect you from a severe case of flu?

Researchers discovered that epigenetic changes in macrophages after SARS-CoV-2 infection enabled them to mount a better defense against influenza A virus. This innate immune memory can provide protection against future infections and may enable the development of new therapeutic strategies.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalImmunity·DateSep 30, 2024

New imaging technique brings us closer to simplified, low-cost agricultural quality assessment

Researchers developed a method to reconstruct hyperspectral images from standard RGB images using deep machine learning. The technique achieved over 70% accuracy in predicting soluble solid content and 88% accuracy in dry matter content in sweet potatoes, with potential applications for the agricultural industry.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Alzheimer’s genetic risk factors spark inflammation in females

Researchers found that combining APOE4 and TREM2 variants triggers inflammatory response in female brains, damaging brain regions involved in thinking and memory. This study emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to treat Alzheimer's disease differently in men and women.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateSep 30, 2024

First-ever imaging of pathogens on lettuce leaves in real-time

Scientists have created a method for imaging common plant infections without killing the plant, allowing for real-time tracking of disease development. This technique provides insights into how plants respond to pathogens, aiding in the cultivation of crops with broader resistance to various diseases.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Study coordinates satellite swarm for 3D imaging inside clouds

David Stanley's research uses a mixed integer linear program solver to optimize satellite pointing angles for efficient cloud imaging. The study simulates multiple satellites and clouds to understand convection transport effects on regrowth of new clouds, with potential implications for greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Spacecraft and Rockets·DateSep 30, 2024

Time-restricted eating associated with greater blood sugar control and fat loss than standard nutrition counseling

A randomized controlled trial found that time-restricted eating (TRE) led to greater improvements in glucose control, weight loss, and fat reduction compared to standard nutrition counseling in adults with metabolic syndrome. TRE resulted in a lower risk of muscle mass loss during weight loss.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Sewage secrets: economic factors shaping our microbiome exposed

Researchers identified distinct global patterns in human sewage microbiomes, with species richness increasing at higher latitudes. Economic factors, such as export values and social security, play a key role in shaping microbial diversity, with developed regions exhibiting more uniform communities.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Honey, I shrunk the city: What should declining Japanese cities do?

A study reveals that shrinking Japanese cities are often medium-sized or small, and that urban policies should be tailored to their specific needs. The research found correlations between population changes and social, economic, and urban-planning factors in cities of varying sizes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalEnvironment and Planning B Urban Analytics and City Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Keeping a longer overnight fast and eating an early breakfast may be associated with a lower body mass index

A recent study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity suggests that extending overnight fasts and eating an early breakfast may be associated with a lower body mass index. The research, led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, involved over 7,000 volunteers who answered questionnai...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Coral reef destruction a threat to human rights

A human rights-based approach to coral reef protection could ensure governments are held accountable for safeguarding marine ecosystems. An estimated one billion people rely on healthy coral reefs globally for food security and income, highlighting the catastrophic impact of their loss on human health and economic wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Where flood policy helps most — and where it could do more

A new study reveals the flood insurance program's effects differ greatly among communities, with higher-population and wealthier areas benefiting more from discounts on premiums. Lower-income communities also see benefits, but only in areas with less racial and ethnic diversity, realizing a gain of about $6,000 per household.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 30, 2024

Cause-specific mortality rates among the US Black population

The study found that progress in reducing excess mortality among Black individuals was stalled by an increase in mortality from external causes. Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers still pose significant health risks to the US Black population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 30, 2024

What is the moon's true origin story?

Two Penn State researchers propose an alternative theory: the moon was captured in a binary-exchange capture, where Earth's gravity snagged one of two objects, resulting in its current orbit. This new possibility opens up new questions and opportunities for further study.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024

Circular peptides in violets may aid in the fight against glioblastoma

Scientists at Brain Chemistry Labs discovered a promising compound called kalata B1 from violets that enhances the activity of chemotherapy TMZ against glioblastoma cells. The synthetic version of kalata B1 showed equal efficacy to the natural molecule, offering a potential new treatment option for patients.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalBiomedicines·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Brigham study finds older adults who experience a fall are at increased risk of dementia

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that older adults who sustained a traumatic injury were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias if they experienced falls. The study suggests that completing cognitive screenings in older patients after a fall could help detect dementia sooner.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Getting the flu and then your shot may benefit immunity

Researchers found that natural immunity from previous flu infections enhances vaccine efficacy, leading to stronger and broader antibody responses. This could benefit individuals who contract the flu each year, potentially improving protection against future strains.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalVaccine·DateSep 30, 2024

Redlining and time to viral suppression among persons with HIV

A new study finds that persons with HIV diagnosed in redlined neighborhoods experience a significantly longer time to viral suppression. Systemic racism's enduring effects on present-day health outcomes among persons with HIV have been confirmed by the research.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2024

Making soybeans smarter

Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 30, 2024

AI promises to ramp up PCR tests for faster DNA diagnostics and forensics

A new study by Flinders University experts has developed an AI-powered PCR system that improves the quality of DNA profiling and increases the efficiency of cycling conditions. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as forensic science, clinical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring.

SourceFlinders University·JournalGenes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Medical imaging breakthrough could transform cancer and arthritis diagnosis

A new hand-held scanner can generate highly detailed 3D images in seconds, paving the way for earlier disease diagnosis. The technology uses laser-generated ultrasound waves to visualize subtle changes in blood vessels, helping inform patient care and diagnose conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

Helping robots zero in on the objects that matter

A new method called Clio allows robots to make task-relevant decisions by identifying the parts of a scene that matter. In real experiments, Clio successfully mapped scenes at different levels of granularity based on natural-language prompts and enabled robots to grasp objects of interest.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateSep 30, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

American Academy of Pediatrics promotes shared reading starting in infancy as a positive parenting practice with lifelong benefits

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pediatricians support families with guidance and books at well-child visits. Shared reading strengthens bonds and stimulates brain circuitry, creating early attachments. This practice has enduring benefits for social-emotional, cognitive, language, and literacy development.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 29, 2024